Togo to clear Grand Lomé beaches and ban coastal parking

An ad hoc committee in Togo is launching an operation to clear the beaches and maritime public domain of the Grand Lomé region starting September 1, 2026. The initiative aims to end the irregular appropriation of beaches by private individuals and restore their public function, ensuring free access for all users while addressing security and environmental preservation needs.

Following a grace period in August for occupants to voluntarily remove their installations, the committee will begin demolishing and removing any remaining structures. The operation will include the evacuation of waste and materials, followed by measures to prevent future illegal occupations.

In conjunction with the beach clearing, parking and motorized vehicle access on the Lomé beach will be prohibited as of September 1. This restriction has raised concerns in areas like Adawlato, where beach parking had become a practical solution due to limited access to nearby markets. While the Golfe 4 commune previously proposed a parking project, it faced opposition from the Établissement Public Autonome de Gestion des Marchés (EPAM), and no clear alternative for vehicle storage has been established.